Introduction to Sociology (Soc 106)
This study guide is designed to help you prepare for your first exam by summarizing key topics, concepts,
and areas of focus. These are just a breakdown of the core concepts we’ve discussed in class. At the end
you will find some tips and tricks to help you succeed for the first exam.
I. Introduction to Sociology
1. What is Sociology?
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Definition of sociology
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Importance of studying society
2. The Sociological Imagination
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C. Wright Mills' concept
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Define: Public v. Private
o
What are some examples of using your sociological imagination?
II. The Sociological Perspective
3. Basic Sociological Concepts
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Social structure
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Social institutions
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Social norms and values
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Socialization
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Definition of culture
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Components of culture (language, symbols, norms, values)
4. Theories in Sociology
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Functionalism
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Conflict theory
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Symbolic interactionism
III. Culture and Society
5. Culture
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Subcultures
1. What distinguishes subcultures from culture? Can you spot the difference?
o Sociocentric v. egocentric
o Ethnocentrism
o Cultural relativism
6. Ideology (what is it and what does it do?)
7. Media
Introduction to Sociology (Soc 106)
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What is the media/mass media? And why is it important?
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How does the media impact society?
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Hegemony
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Media effects
1. Stereotypes
2. Subcultures
3. Manufacturing consent
o
Political Economy (remember class examples)
V. Socialization
8. Social Construction of Reality
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Social status and role
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Master status
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Ascribed v. achieved
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Stages of Socialization
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Agents of Socialization
VII. Deviance and Social Control
9. Deviance and Social Norms
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Definition of deviance
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The social construction of deviance
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Informal v. formal social control
10. Theories of Deviance
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Strain theory (why does deviance happen)
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Labeling theory (what does deviance keep happening)
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Conflict theory (what defines deviance)
Tips:
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Go to class.
Pay attention in class.
Look at your lecture notes.